What Are The Similarities Between The Great Gatsby And My Family

The American dream has long been an idealized concept, symbolizing the belief that hard work and determination can lead to prosperity. However, the attainability of the American dream has been largely falsified and glamorized in the media throughout centuries. The “American Dream” is only attainable when one is born into privilege and most don’t learn the harsh reality until they have to fight harder for the false concept of upward mobility. This comparative analysis of the cultural dynamics depicted in the 2013 “ The Great Gatsby” and Gregory Nava’s 1995 film “My Family” reveals a progression away from the pursuit of the American dream towards the recognition of privilege and social class differences. This essay will explore how these two

The film is set in the extravagant 1920’s, a period known for its excesses and the illusion of prosperity. Jay Gatsby, the embodiment of the American dream, accumulates great wealth in an attempt to win back the love of the beautiful Daisy Buchanan. However, the narrative reveals the underlying corruption and moral decay associated with this pursuit of valuables and materialistic ideals. Gatsby’s extravagant parties and involvement in bootlegging expose the dark side of his success, highlighting the hollowness and unattainability of the American dream when it is only pursued to achieve the possession of riches and valuables. Carver and Baird describe “that aspirations to financial success represent extrinsic goals. They entail obtaining contingent, external approval from others. Aspiration to financial success thus implies controlled, rather than autonomous, self-regulation.” One can infer that people of privileged communities, such as Jay Gatsby, pursue the quote on quote American dream for the love and societal acceptance that comes with money and high value items. This can be proven through an analysis of the party scenes in the Gatsby, Jay gatsby invites all of the town's most wealthy people to indulge in his nightly parties that include beautiful fireworks, gorgeous flappers, and expensive cocktails. Even the music played at these parties represents the wealth exhibited

The film delves into the reality of privilege and social class differences, focusing on the challenges faced by the characters due to their socioeconomic backgrounds. It portrays the Rodriguez family’s journey towards upward mobility, highlighting the barriers imposed by social class and systemic inequalities. The characters’ aspirations for a better life are tempered by the harsh realities they encounter, shedding light on the complex dynamics of privilege and its impact on individuals. The film is narrated by the eldest brother, throughout his narration, he depicts the story of his family and his mothers undying wish of happiness and fulfillment for her children. The whole idea behind why immigrants pursue the American dream is driven by the idea that most immigrant parents had not attained higher education; however, parents encourage their children to attend college to have a better life than what they could provide to their children. Through these values, their children garnered a strong work ethic and deep determination.” ( Perez 34). Through this, it can be concluded that individuals of higher socioeconomic status and lighter complexions pursue the american dream for the promise of riches and valuables while individuals of marginalized communities pursue the american dream for the attainment of a better life. From my personal experience and knowing families